Delivering Much More Than a Meal 

By Breanna Williams

Human beings, no matter our age group, need social connection to live balanced lives. We don’t often think of isolation and loneliness as a health matter, but when we don’t engage with others or stay connected to our peers and loved ones, our health experiences setbacks. This is especially true for older adults, whose total health and wellbeing can be impacted greatly without social connection. 

Research shows that older adults feel the impact of loneliness differently from younger demographics. When given opportunities for social engagement and when they experience feelings of belonging, their stress reduces, their risk of depression decreases and their cardiovascular health improves. Connections to our communities foster a true sense of purpose. Experiences like these also prevent cognitive decline and promote longevity.  

Our mission at Meals on Wheels of Southwest OH & Northern KY is to deliver essential services that promote the independence of seniors. We understand the ever-growing need for social relationships, especially among older adults. One in four seniors, research from Meals on Wheels America shows, experiences feelings of loneliness. As a leading senior service provider in Greater Cincinnati, we play a critical role in combating the challenges of isolation by focusing on three key areas: nutrition, connection and protection.  

You may know us best for our home-delivered meal service — and for good reason. In 2024 alone, we provided 1,168,622 nutritious meals to 6,468 seniors, ensuring they had access to the food they needed. Our home-delivery services combat isolation and hunger at the same time, enabling seniors to stay healthy and independent. It’s the heart of what we do.  

Our mission extends far beyond meals, though. 

We recognize that true well-being means meeting more than just dietary needs. We provide congregate meals for group dining, a pet program to support our seniors’ beloved companions, transportation services to help seniors stay mobile and social support services such as financial management and care coordination. Our telephone reassurance program offers friendly check-ins, while our digital literacy program empowers seniors to confidently navigate technology. Plus, our very own senior center serves as a hub for engagement and community. 

Beyond nutrition, we also focus on nourishing minds and spirits through health and wellness programs available both virtually and in-person. These are designed to enrich seniors’ lives by providing opportunities to build friendships, explore new interests, stay active and engage in lifelong learning. Our diverse range of programs offers something for everyone. 

For those who enjoy in-person activities, we provide free transportation, ensuring that mobility challenges never stand in the way of staying socially and mentally engaged. Recent adventures have included guided tours of local attractions, where participants explore the rich history and culture of Cincinnati. In our City Stops program, seniors can try new cuisines and social experiences. Our art classes, which are open to all skill levels, emphasize self-expression and creative learning techniques. Tai Chi Flow, held in Hyde Park, is a fun, easy to follow-along form of self-care. 

For those who love strategy and mental challenges, our chess lessons combine strategic gameplay for all skill levels, while gaining fascinating insights into chess culture. Additionally, our lunch-and-learn events feature expert speakers on Cincinnati history, art, and lifestyle.  

We recognize that meeting in-person can be challenging at times as well, and we leverage the basics of technology to keep seniors connected. Our growing digital community provides virtual engagement with others from the comfort of home.  

Powered by Televeda, we offer convenient and easy-to-navigate ways to stay socially and mentally active, no matter where you are. Televeda is a dynamic digital platform designed to support older adults through learning, mindfulness, health, and social engagement — all at no cost. People can participate in a variety of virtual activities, including morning meditation, Spanish Club, Brain Games, watercolor, Chair Yoga, Zumba, and strength training. And this is just the beginning! We’re continually expanding our offerings to bring the community even more exciting programs in the near future. 

Cindy Browne of Mt. Lookout, one of our regular Health & Wellness program participants said she was initially hesitant to join a “seniors’ group.” She has since realized the importance of embracing this new chapter of her life. As she sipped coffee from her favorite coffee shop, Fulton Yards Coffeehouse in the East End, she said, “It was my first group like that in retirement, of older people, and I found it to be a good component to my life.”  

She now not only participates but acts as a champion for planning and implementing program activities.  

We invite seniors to explore, connect, and be part of this thriving online community that supports their well-being and independence. To get started, visit live.televeda.com. When creating an account, use Invite Code MOW123 to be connected to the Meals on Wheels community and gain instant access to all we have to offer. Our growing Digital Connect team is ready to assist with creating an account and accessing the programs.  

One of the biggest benefits to our online platform is how we have seen virtual programs lead to in-person connections. Individuals that meet each other for the first time online eventually go on to sign up for one of our in-person activities — proof that connection can grow beyond the screen. We not only encourage you to take part in activities, but we also support you in exploring and discovering a greater sense of meaning and purpose through that participation. 

To learn more about Health and Wellness programs, contact Health & Wellness Coordinator Kara Harper by calling 513-244-5494 or by emailing kpierson@muchmorethanameal.org. You may also call the office for questions regarding any of our other programs and services at 513-661-2777. 

Breanna Williams is the programs manager at Meals on Wheels of Southwest OH & Northern KY.